Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a culinary journey to the vibrant shores of Jamaica! Our Slow Cooker Jamaican Jerk Chicken is not just a meal; it's an explosion of flavors that will transport you straight to the Caribbean. Imagine succulent chicken thighs, perfectly seasoned with bold jerk spices, simmering for hours until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is the ultimate weeknight winner that promises to impress your family and friends. Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Jamaican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Generously coat each chicken thigh with Jamaican jerk seasoning, ensuring even coverage on all sides of the meat.
- Slice the onion and bell pepper into thin, uniform strips to help them cook evenly in the slow cooker.
- Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
- Layer the sliced onions and bell peppers at the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful base for the chicken.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetable layer, arranging them in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Scatter fresh pineapple chunks around and between the chicken thighs to add sweetness and moisture.
- Pour soy sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables to enhance the depth of flavor and help tenderize the meat.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat, cooking for 6 hours until the chicken is tender and easily falls apart.
- After cooking, carefully remove the chicken thighs and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Optional: For crispy skin, briefly broil the chicken thighs in the oven for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Serve the jerk chicken over rice, with the cooked vegetables and pineapple as a delicious accompaniment.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in the Jamaican jerk seasoning overnight before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more deeply.
- Layering is Key: Make sure to layer the onions and bell peppers at the bottom of the slow cooker. This not only adds flavor but also prevents the chicken from sticking to the pot.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: For best results, cook the chicken on low heat for the full 6 hours. This slow cooking method ensures that the chicken becomes tender and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- Crispy Finish: If you love crispy skin, pop the cooked chicken thighs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after they’ve finished cooking. This quick step will give you that delightful crunch!
- Serve with Style: For a complete meal, serve your jerk chicken over fluffy rice, and don’t forget to spoon some of the cooked vegetables and pineapple on top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to adjust the amount of jerk seasoning used or add a little honey to balance out the spice.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 140mg
